DIFFA/Dallas distributed grants to 21 AIDS service organizations at the celebratory event.
Photo by Shana Anderson

DIFFA/Dallas may be known for its spectacular spring fundraiser, House of DIFFA. But the grants distribution party may be the nonprofit’s most beloved event of the season, because that’s when DIFFA celebrates — and passes out checks to — its beneficiaries: North Texas AIDS service organizations.

On August 25, supporters gathered at Traffic LA downtown, where DIFFA distributed more than $560,000 to 21 deserving ASOs. That’s a 20 percent increase in funding compared to the previous season. CultureMap was there, video camera in tow, to capture the momentous occasion.

In addition to hearing impassioned speeches from outgoing DIFFA/Dallas board chair 2015-16 Justin Bundick, incoming board chair Chuck Steelman, and executive board member Shayne Robinson, guests learned more about the missions of the following organizations:

A Sister's Gift

AIDS Arms

AIDS Interfaith Network

AIDS Outreach Center

AIDS Services of Dallas

AIDS Walk South Dallas

Bryan's House

Children's Medical Center's ARMS Clinic

Cook Children's Medical Center

East Texas Cares

Greg Dollenger Memorial AIDS Fund

Health Services of North Texas

JPS Health Network

Legacy Counseling Center

Legal Hospice

Resource Center

Samaritan House

Texas Woman's University (HIV Prevention Program)

Treasured Ladies' Club

University of North Texas (HIV Prevention Program)

White Rock Friends

Funds raised via DIFFA/Dallas are used for education, transportation, housing, mental health, and meal programs for those infected with or impacted by HIV/AIDS — especially women, children, and those in low-income situations.

Mark your calendars for October 7, when DIFFA/Dallas kicks off its 2016-17 fundraising season with Burgers & Burgundy: DIFFAchella on Ron Kirk Bridge. That is followed by the Holiday Wreath Collection on November 10 and House of DIFFA on May 6, 2017.

The Dallas chapter of DIFFA, formed in 1984, provides funding to local HIV/AIDS service organizations within our community. DIFFA/Dallas has granted more than $8 million to 25 front-line ASOs in North Texas, providing direct care to those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.